Gérald Giannini is about to turn the page on his professional career! After three decades at de Buedemleër, the company’s first employee is retiring with deep emotion. Devoted, with a fine team spirit and committed to both training and safety, Gérald grew into the role of right-hand man alongside Ben Jungers.
Gérald, tell us how this exceptional adventure in the world of floor coverings began…
I was the very first employee of de Buedemleër, joining the company in January 1995, barely a year after it was founded by Mady and Roby Jungers on 1 May 1994. I originally trained as a chef, but my working life took a decisive turn when I decided to change direction and move into floor covering.
I got to know Roby Jungers at another company where we worked together. When Roby decided to set up his own business, I wasted no time in following him.
That choice marked the start of a fruitful collaboration and a working relationship that lasted 29 years!
At de Buedemleër, I worked my way up in exemplary fashion. I started my career as a floor layer, specialising in particular in parquet flooring and the installation of resilient floor coverings. My expertise in this field quickly became a major asset for the company. We have grown together and now employ 28 people.
Over the years, I also took charge of training the company’s young talent, sharing my know-how and experience with the next generation. My dedication to the company led me to hold various positions, including safety officer, technician and finally head technician. I enjoyed being on my knees laying floors just as much as sitting at my desk managing customer files and making sure projects ran smoothly.
How do you feel about retiring?
I was lucky enough to build a career in a remarkable company. The years have flown by. But now it is time for me to join my wife and travel with her across Europe and Canada.
Words of appreciation
The founders of de Buedemleër, Mady and Roby Jungers, together with other key members of the company, would like to express their gratitude to Gérald for his loyalty.
Mady Jungers:
“Gérald was not only the first employee at de Buedemleër, but also a responsible, reliable and loyal person. Gérald, thank you so much for 29 years of good collaboration.”
Roby Jungers:
“When Gérald, whom I knew to be a loyal, likeable and friendly man, asked us whether de Buedemleër needed reinforcements, the only question for us was whether we could offer Gérald a reliable, long-term job. Gérald has always been an important part of de Buedemleër and has contributed to the company’s success. Gérald, THANK YOU.”
Ben Jungers:
“Gérald built a career because he was determined to follow that path. Gérald’s willingness to step outside his comfort zone allowed him to grow and develop enormously. Gérald took on new responsibilities with courage. His determination, passion and professionalism were a key factor in the success of the whole team, right up to the very last day.
Gérald leaves behind a well-trained, solid team and a hole in our hearts. With his departure, together we bring one era to a close and embark on two new adventures.”
Gérald was much more than just an employee. He was a pillar of team spirit and of de Buedemleër’s success. His retirement marks the end of an era, but his legacy will live on in the company. We wish him a most enjoyable retirement, filled with well-deserved moments of relaxation.